Collaborative evidenced-based approachEngagement with stakeholders identified a number of key needs:

solid evidence - we need science to help drive policy and solutions

evidence-backed pathways to change behaviour and bring low carbon solutions and materials into the mainstream

leadership and vision - we need to influence key decision-makers

a holistic approach, involving not just the building and construction industry but also the banking, finance and other sectors.

A collaborative programme approach is necessary because:

the timing is urgent

it will build wider support for leadership and action

it will build wider capability for industry to respond in an inclusive manner

there are many knowledge gaps to be addressed.

The programme moves from evidence to pathways to solutions:

Evidence: Use research to fill the gaps in our knowledge.

Pathways: Use the evidence to create net-zero carbon pathways for the industry.

Solutions: Design, develop and implement solutions that give net-zero carbon outputs for all building products, processes, and practices.

Key peopleDr Casimir MacGregor - Programme LeaderCasimir MacGregor is a senior social scientist at BRANZ. His research includes regulatory responses to the role of buildings in mitigating and adapting to climate change (with MBIE), an energy epidemiology of health settings, and a new study (with University of Otago Business School) on how industry is preparing for climate change.

Dr David Dowdell - Programme Science Leader David Dowdell is a Principal Scientist at BRANZ. His key areas of research interest include the application of life cycle assessment (LCA) to building design and construction and supply chain traceability of construction products.

Programme Advisory Group: The programme will be supported by a Programme Advisory Group with two sub-groups:

The Science Leadership sub-group provides specialist advice to the programme, supports research quality and helps to develop research capability.

Invitation to collaborateBRANZ is working with partners from across New Zealand but we need to grow capability and connections:Invitation to collaborate

more people with knowledge along the building supply chain and life cycle (from design, products and construction to demolition and waste reduction)

across and within research, policy and industry communities.

BRANZ would like to hear from stakeholders - including universities, industry and other research providers - around what could be done in partnership to support capability growth. This could include (but should not be limited to) support with joint-curriculum development or student scholarships. We would also welcome new ways to collaborate, including with industry.